The Chairman house committee on Tourism and Culture and a former governor of Imo state Chief Rochas Okorocha has described the year 2020 as a very challenging year with the dangers posed by COVID 19 and hijack of EndSARs protests by some hoodlums pointing out that Nigeria as a country is going through a phase that will lead it to greater heights.
Speaking during the opening ceremony of the 33rd National Festival of Arts and Culture, NAFEST taking place in Jos, Plateau state, Senator Okorocha who expressed hope that Nigeria will rise and lead the world.
Correspondent Chioma Ezike has the details of the story.
It was really a cultural display as twenty one states across the country rolled out their drums in a colourful cultural parade and dances.
Senator Okorocha who commended the colonial performance and citations by Plateau state contingent led by Dantala said the people that do not remember their origin will not know how to end.
Senator Okorocha pointed out that COVID 19 and EndSARS protests negatively affected the economy with job loss and deaths but could not take away the country’s rich cultural heritage and this gives the nation a brighter hope.
He charged Nigerians to shun negative attitudes that could lead to serious protests again and work towards a greater hope for the nation Nigeria.
In an opening remark, the Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Otumba Segun RUNSEWE said time is ripe to prepare and equip Plateau state as a state for medical tourism given its unique weather and other tourism potential.
The governor of Plateau state , Governor Simon lalong said hosting NAFEST in Plateau state was a confirmation of peace that has been restored in the state through initiated dialogues.
Some of the participants expressed hope that the week long festival will further unite the nation and heal the pains caused by hijack of the EndSARs protests.
